The Calling

Do you believe in a calling? That you were meant for a certain vocation or career? That you were born to do that? I think of all the people I have met in my travels, my career & through life, once in awhile I see a perfect fit. Someone who is meant to do that job. There's a twinkle in their eye and a passion that traversed through them. It comes so naturally - so right, like a gift from god. I often see it in the face of a jazz pianist during a performance - it just oozes with passion and conviction. I see it when I'm in a meeting chaired by another project manager, and how she knows exactly when to step in and when to let things flow. She's in control with a smile and at the end of the meeting, we have achieved something because of her guidance, judgment and confidence. Since entering the world of TEFL, I have observed many a teacher in action, and once in awhile I come across a person who is born to teach - it is a gift. They know it, the students know it, and I - sitting in the back of the class, just smile like I'm watching jazz. It is truly a thing of beauty.
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Maybe one's true calling is just one those 'pie in the sky' questions - like finding your true love... your soulmate. Perhaps it is just a romantic notion that really doesn't hold water in the harsh light of day. Of reality. Of feet firmly planted on the ground.
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They say you are indeed lucky if you find your true calling. But I ask is it enough just to find it - don't you still need to work at it? Wayne Gretzky, arguably the greatest hockey player to ever come out of Canada, had to practice all the time as a child under his dad's stern and disciplined guidance. Would Wayne have become the 'Great One' without those long hours at the rink? Did he know back then, that this is his calling? His dad certainly did...
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So how does one know, when they've found their calling? It is an instant recognition or more of a slow burn? Does it happen to everyone? How do you reconcile the doubts? The mystery of it? The confusion.
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I wonder, on this cold Sunday morning, if I have found mine...
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I wonder if I still need to look further.... Somewhere.... Somehow....
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I wonder if there's any coffee left....